This Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries offers a perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and flavor. It combines the crispness of Honeycrisp apples with the subtle crunch of celery and nuts, the sweetness of grapes, and the tartness of dried cranberries. This vibrant salad is ideal for a refreshing side dish or a light, healthy snack. The addition of a honey-lime dressing brings everything together, creating a delightful contrast of flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 2 Honeycrisp apples, cored and diced
- 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Start by preparing all your ingredients. Core and dice the Honeycrisp apples into bite-sized pieces. Slice the celery thinly and cut the grapes in half. Roughly chop the pecans and gather your dried cranberries.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced apples, sliced celery, halved grapes, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries. Gently toss these ingredients together to mix evenly.
- In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together Greek yogurt (if using), honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper. The yogurt adds creaminess, while the honey and lime juice provide a sweet and tangy balance.
- Pour the dressing over the fruit and nut mixture, then toss everything gently to coat evenly. Ensure that each piece of apple and grape is lightly coated with the dressing.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a little extra honey for sweetness or lime juice for more tang.
- Serve immediately for the freshest flavor, or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can also be served chilled or at room temperature.
- For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or a few additional dried cranberries on top right before serving for extra texture and visual appeal.
This Apple Salad with Honeycrisp Apples, Celery, Grapes, Pecans, and Dried Cranberries is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors. It’s perfect for picnics, holiday gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh, crunchy ingredients with the sweet and tangy dressing will leave you craving more, making it a go-to salad recipe for any occasion. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, offering a healthy mix of vitamins and antioxidants from the fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a side dish to complement your meal, this salad will always be a winner!